Recreational fishers have been praised for complying with fishing regulations over the Easter long weekend, with 98 per cent of those checked found to be following the rules.
More than 2500 fishers had their catches checked in a state wide sweep over the four days with only 30 on the spot fines issued and 26 cautions.
Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) director operations fisheries and aquaculture Benn Gramola said he was pleased with 98 per cent of fishers checked complying with the rules and this further demonstrated the community’s understanding of the need for sustainable fishing.
“While one person not complying with our fishing regulations is one too many, reality is there will always be a few who – intentionally or accidently – do the wrong thing,” he said.
“Just over two per cent of those checked is a very good demonstration of people understanding the importance of compliance to protect our fish stocks.
“Our recreational fishing regulations are designed to preserve and conserve the state’s aquatic resources to ensure this very enjoyable and important activity can be sustained for future generations.
Mr Gramola said most offences were related to undersized fish with one group receiving a total of $3000 in fines.
Fisheries officers, employed by PIRSA, play an important role enforcing regulations as well as informing and educating recreational fishers.
Fisheries officers are also well supported by the State’s Fishcare volunteers, who operate in eight teams across the state, and raise fishers’ awareness of fishstocks and the regulations that apply to recreational fishing.
Anyone wishing to report suspicious or illegal fishing activity can contact their local fisheries officer, call FISHWATCH on 1800 065 522 or submit an online report at pir.sa.gov.au/fisheries/fishwatch.
Reports can be made anonymously.
